Cheapest SUVs In Canada

What Makes an SUV Affordable?

When looking for the cheapest SUV in Canada, it’s important to consider more than just the purchase price. While the sticker price is certainly a major factor, there are other key elements that determine overall affordability and cost of ownership over time.

Some of the top considerations that make an SUV affordable include:

• Purchase price – Lower MSRPs like those under $25,000 for compact models obviously help.
• Fuel efficiency – More MPG means less spent on gas which saves money.
• Maintenance costs – Reliable models that require minimal repairs are ideal.
• Insurance rates – Premiums vary so choose cost-effective vehicles to insure.
• Resale value – SUVs that hold value lead to more money back when you sell or trade-in.

For this article, “affordable” means an SUV with excellent value across all of those ownership factors. The cheapest SUVs minimize your total cost over several years, not just the initial purchase price. By looking at the whole picture, you can find great deals on SUVs in Canada that fit your budget.

Most Affordable Subcompact SUVs

For those seeking a compact SUV on a tight budget, subcompact models offer excellent value with pricing starting under $20,000. Three of the most affordable options in Canada for 2024 include:

Hyundai Venue

The Hyundai Venue is the least expensive subcompact SUV in Canada with a starting MSRP of just $17,599. Available in Essential, Preferred, and Ultimate trim levels, the Venue comes well equipped even in base form. Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and a rearview camera. Power comes from a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine making 121 horsepower paired to a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 7.7 L/100 km in the city. The Venue provides excellent value for budget-focused buyers seeking a stylish, well-equipped subcompact SUV.

Nissan Kicks

Pricing for the Nissan Kicks starts at $19,898 in Canada for the 2024 model year. Available in S, SV, and SR trim levels, the Kicks comes standard with intelligent cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The interior features a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and seating for five. Motivation comes from a 1.6L 4-cylinder producing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, managed by an Xtronic CVT automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 7.7 L/100 km combined. With its affordable pricing and ample list of standard safety and technology features, the Nissan Kicks is a strong value in the subcompact SUV segment.

Chevy Trax

The Chevrolet Trax is the most affordable domestic subcompact SUV in Canada, with pricing starting at $21,398 for the 2024 model year. Offered in LS, LT, and Premier trims, even the base Trax LS includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, OnStar safety services, and a rearview camera. Under the hood is a 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy checks in at 8.1 L/100 km city and 6.7 highway. With seating for five, ample cargo space, and a long list of standard features, the Chevy Trax presents strong value for budget-minded Canadian shoppers.

Most Affordable Compact SUVs

Compact SUVs offer a great combination of utility and affordability. Here are some of the most affordable options in the compact segment:

Mazda CX-3

The Mazda CX-3 starts at just \$21,300, making it one of the most affordable ways to get into a compact SUV. The CX-3 is known for its sporty handling and upscale interior. Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, rearview camera, and automatic emergency braking. The CX-3 is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is excellent at 9.0L/100km in the city and 7.4L/100km on the highway.

Subaru Crosstrek

The Subaru Crosstrek has a starting price of \$25,495 and comes standard with Subaru’s renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive system. This makes the Crosstrek one of the most affordable AWD SUVs you can buy. The Crosstrek delivers 8.8 inches of ground clearance for light off-roading and rugged capability. It’s powered by a 2.0L boxer engine and continuously variable transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 8.8L/100km city and 7.2L/100km highway. The Crosstrek provides ample cargo space and modern tech like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

Kia Seltos

With pricing from just $25,195, the Kia Seltos presents excellent value in the compact segment. It has a handsome, bold exterior design and a well-appointed interior. The Seltos comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and forward collision warning. Two engines are offered: a 2.0L 4-cylinder with 146 horsepower, and a turbocharged 1.6L making 175 horsepower. Fuel economy ranges from 8.7 to 9.5L/100km in the city depending on configuration. The Seltos provides good passenger and cargo space for its size.

Toyota Corolla Cross

The all-new Toyota Corolla Cross replaces the C-HR with improved value and practicality. Pricing starts at just $26,390, making it one of the most affordable ways into a Toyota SUV. The Corolla Cross shares its 2.0L 4-cylinder engine and CVT transmission with the Corolla sedan, delivering fuel economy of 8.4L/100km city and 7.0L/100km highway. It provides more rear seat and cargo space than the C-HR. The Corolla Cross also comes with Toyota’s excellent reputation for reliability and resale value.

Most Affordable 2-Row Midsize SUVs

If you need more space than a compact SUV but still want great value, midsize 2-row SUVs offer excellent options without breaking the bank. Here are some of the most affordable choices for 2024:

The Subaru Outback starts at just $36,572 and comes standard with Subaru’s excellent all-wheel drive capability. With ample cargo room and available advanced safety features like EyeSight driver assist, the Outback provides a lot of value at this price point. Fuel economy is also impressive for an AWD SUV, with the Outback getting an estimated 8.7L/100km in combined city/highway driving.

For a well-equipped midsize SUV, the Nissan Murano is attractively priced from \$37,498. The Murano offers a cushy ride and responsive V6 engine paired with a continuously variable transmission. Interior room is generous, and the Murano has one of the more upscale-feeling cabins in its class. Fuel economy is rated at 9.4L/100km combined.

The Hyundai Santa Fe brings a lot to the table with a starting price of just $31,999. Its refined drivetrain, comfortable ride, and lengthy warranty coverage add to the value. Five adults can ride comfortably, and there’s ample cargo space. Combined fuel economy comes in at 9.3L/100km. The Santa Fe hits a sweet spot for affordable midsize SUVs.

Most Affordable 3-Row Midsize SUVs

If you need seating for up to 7 or 8 passengers but want to keep costs down, there are some excellent values among midsize 3-row SUVs.

The Mitsubishi Outlander starts at just $31,998 for the 7-passenger ES FWD model. This compact 3-row SUV provides great utility and flexibility at an affordable price point. The Outlander offers a standard third row and seating for up to 7 in its smaller footprint. Fuel economy is also good for the class with ratings of 9.5L/100km city and 7.9L/100km highway. The Outlander ES comes decently equipped with features like a 7″ touchscreen, rearview camera, Bluetooth, and more.

The Dodge Journey is another very affordable 3-row option with pricing from \$32,595 for the Canada Value Package. This midsize SUV can seat up to 7 passengers with a small third row that folds down when not in use. The Journey offers a smooth ride and responsive V6 engine on higher trims. It comes standard with a 5″ touchscreen, keyless entry, power windows/locks, and seating for 5. Moving up to the Crossroad trim adds the third row along with dual zone climate control, satellite radio, rear parking sensors, and more.

For a slightly larger 3-row SUV, the Chevrolet Traverse starts at $36,198 for the LS FWD model. It provides ample cargo room and seating for up to 8 passengers. The Traverse has an efficient V6 engine delivering solid acceleration and towing capability up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Even in base LS trim, the Traverse includes Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, OnStar safety services, rearview camera, tri-zone climate control, and seating for 7. The Traverse provides excellent family utility at a reasonable price.

Tips for Finding the Best Deals

Finding an affordable SUV in Canada means focusing on more than just the sticker price. Here are some tips for getting the best overall value:

Consider AWD models from Subaru that include this feature standard – Subaru is known for their standard all-wheel drive on vehicles like the Crosstrek, Outback, and Forester. Opting for an AWD model from Subaru can give you added capability in winter weather without having to pay extra for AWD as an add-on in other vehicles.

Look for current incentives and deals – Automakers will often offer cash rebates, 0% financing, or lease deals to help move inventory. Pay attention to any current incentives that can lower the effective price you pay for an SUV model.

Focus on total long term ownership costs – Over 5-6 years of ownership, factors like depreciation, fuel economy, insurance costs, and projected maintenance and repairs determine your true cost of owning an SUV. Opt for reliability and fuel efficiency over flashy features.

The Importance of Safety Features

When looking for an affordable SUV, it’s important not to compromise on safety just to save money. The latest driver assistance and active safety technologies can prevent accidents and reduce injuries in a crash, so they should factor into your decision.

Many affordable SUVs now come standard with forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. These systems detect stopped traffic ahead and brake automatically if the driver doesn’t respond in time. Features like blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and rear cross traffic alert are also becoming more common on lower-priced models.

You’ll want to look at overall crash test results as well. Organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conduct frontal, side, rollover, and small overlap crash tests. An SUV that earns high marks across the board will give you better protection.

While you may be tempted by a cheaper SUV with fewer airbags or lower crash test scores, don’t compromise on safety. Injuries can lead to high medical bills that negate any upfront savings. Prioritize safety features and excellent crash test results, just as you would with a more expensive vehicle.

The Best Affordable SUVs for Families

When shopping for an affordable SUV for a family, there are a few key factors to consider beyond just the purchase price. Look for models with ample cargo room, modern tech features that will keep everyone entertained, and strong safety ratings to protect your most precious cargo.

If you need a 3-row SUV, the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe both offer excellent value. These midsize SUVs start around $35,000, have spacious third rows and cargo areas, and earn top safety picks from the IIHS. They also come loaded with family-friendly tech like rear seat entertainment systems.

For a more budget-friendly compact SUV, the Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi Outlander Sport are great options under $30,000. While they only have two rows, they offer abundant cargo space and high safety scores. You’ll also get standard all-wheel drive on the Forester for added capability in Canadian winters.

When evaluating infotainment, look for touchscreens with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. This allows you to easily mirror smartphones to access apps, music, and navigation. Other helpful tech includes multiple USB ports, WiFi hotspots, and available built-in rear seat entertainment.

While safety features do add to the sticker price, they are worthwhile investments for family vehicles. Look for blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alerts, and forward collision warning. These driver aids will give you added peace of mind with kids in the backseat.

Cheap SUVs with All-Wheel Drive

All-wheel drive can provide vital traction and control in winter driving conditions. While AWD does add to the purchase price, there are some surprisingly affordable options for budget-minded buyers needing this capability.

Subaru is a standout for offering standard AWD on most of its models, including the compact Crosstrek and midsize Outback. The Crosstrek starts at just $25,495 with Subaru’s acclaimed Symmetrical AWD included. Higher trims add desirable features like heated seats, leather, and navigation while staying under $30,000. For a few thousand more, the Outback provides a more refined ride and up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity.

Outside of Subaru models, one of the most affordable ways to get AWD is the front-wheel drive Seltos SX with optional AWD for $27,195. The Seltos provides a surprising amount of tech and utility in a stylish compact SUV wrapper. For larger families, the 2.5L SX Prestige midsize Telluride can be equipped with AWD for just over $40,000.

AWD options are more limited in the subcompact SUV class, but the Chevrolet Trax offers available AWD starting at $23,398 for the LS trim. Moving up to the Trax LT opens up additional amenities while keeping the price around $25,000 with AWD.

While AWD does cost more upfront, the stability and control it provides on snow and ice can give peace of mind to buyers in northern climates. Carefully weigh options to find the optimal combination of capability and value when shopping for an affordable AWD SUV.

Finding Used SUV Deals

With the rapid depreciation of most vehicles, buying a used SUV can provide excellent value if you choose wisely. When shopping for pre-owned SUVs, keep the following factors in mind:

• Mileage – Try to find a used SUV under 100,000 km for the best longevity.
• Maintenance records – Ask to see documentation showing regular service and repairs.
• Accident history – Run a vehicle history report to check for any accidents or damage.
• Warranty – Certified pre-owned models come with extended warranty coverage.
• Inspection – Have a trusted mechanic thoroughly inspect any used vehicle before purchasing.

Some specific used SUV models and years that offer the best bang for your buck include:

• Toyota RAV4 (2016-2018) – Reliable compact SUV with available hybrid option.
• Honda CR-V (2015-2017) – Spacious interior and excellent resale value.
• Subaru Forester (2014-2016) – Standard all-wheel drive and roomy cargo space.
• Ford Escape (2013-2015) – Fun to drive with user-friendly tech features.
• Hyundai Santa Fe (2012-2014) – Stylish exterior and high safety ratings.

Taking the time to carefully evaluate used SUV options can help you score an affordable, reliable pre-owned model.

Conclusion

When looking for the cheapest SUVs in Canada for 2024, there are excellent options across vehicle classes to suit different needs and budgets.

For those seeking an ultra-affordable subcompact SUV, the Hyundai Venue and Nissan Kicks have base models under $20,000. The Mazda CX-3, Subaru Crosstrek, and Kia Seltos offer strong value in the compact SUV segment at around $25,000. Midsize SUV shoppers can find 2-row models like the Subaru Outback, Nissan Murano, and Hyundai Santa Fe starting under $40,000. And budget-friendly 3-row SUVs include the Mitsubishi Outlander, Dodge Journey, and Chevrolet Traverse with pricing from the low $30,000s.

The key takeaway is focusing on total ownership cost over time rather than just the purchase price. Consider fuel efficiency, reliability, insurance costs, and projected depreciation. All-wheel drive models from Subaru provide excellent capability in Canadian winters. Shop current incentives and be flexible across SUV classes to find the best deals.

With thorough research and smart budgeting, you can find an affordable SUV in Canada that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Prioritize safety and reliability, and you’ll enjoy years of happy driving in your new cheapest SUV.